Chapter 4:

Wanted!

Good Dream ~ Bad Dreams' (Original)


Night of 15th Feb., 2002 -
Near Kajal’s residency, a mysterious silhouette emerged, a cigarette gently smoldering between weathered fingers. It was none other than Kajal's father, an enigmatic presence who cast’s a shadow over Sam's thoughts. Sam concealed himself atop a discreet vantage point.As Kajal's father drew closer, he nonchalantly flicked the spent cigarette to the ground, his lips parting into a warm, welcoming smile. His voice carried a blend of familiarity and curiosity as he inquired about the day's escapades. Kajal, standing at the threshold of their shared history, responded with a mixture of affection and reservation, "Not much, Dad. Just arrived."Amid the backdrop of this poignant encounter, Kajal's father extended a hospitable invitation for Heran to step inside their abode. With gracious politeness, she declined, gracefully attributing her decision to the advancing lateness of the hour, preserving the delicate balance of emotions that hung in the air.Kajal's father, ever the gracious host, suggested sending Sam to accompany Heran home. Initially, she declined, but Sam, with a persuasive gesture, indicated his willingness to join her. Reluctantly, she nodded in agreement, and Kajal's father welcomed them all inside. Announcing their arrival, Kajal's mother hurried over to them, as Kajal stammered out excuses. However, her mother embraced her, conveying concern and extending heartfelt apologies if she had been too strict with her earlier. Kajal reassured her mother that everything was fine and handed over the completed sales report.Moved and filled with pride, Kajal's mother was delighted by her daughter's dedication and hard work. She warmly invited both Kajal and Heran to stay for dinner. Heran, initially hesitant, was persuaded by Kajal's persistence and eventually accepted the kind offer. Kajal's father inquired about Sam's whereabouts, who had remained hidden in the shadows by the stairs. Eventually, Sam stepped forward, with a firm gaze, he and his father shared a meaningful state. He then turned to Heran, whispering his plans to go out later and inquiring about Harsh. Heran handed him the car keys, and Sam mentioned that he had eaten before heading out.Within the warm confines of Kajal's welcoming home, a scene unfolds as friends gather around the dinner table, a symphony of clinking cutlery and soft murmurs of conversation filling the air. Kajal's mother, a picture of maternal affection, approaches with platters laden with fragrant butter chicken and succulent drumsticks, her heartwarming gesture echoing through the room. Kajal, her eyes alight with a touch of wisdom, can't help but exchange a glance at Heran. Heran chimed in, saying, "See, I told you," as Kajal added, "That's my mom for you."As the evening unfolds, Sam feels an irresistible pull to step outdoors, his steps leading to Heran's car parked nearby. He gazes through the window at Harsh, a friend from back old days, his mind awash with nostalgia. However, a subtle unease tugs at Sam's senses, prompting him to reach out and check Harsh's temperature, revealing an unusual chill. Concern etches across his face as he tenderly closes the car door, wrapping a scarf around his neck before leaving.Upon his return, carrying a bag brimming with concern, Sam approaches the car with trepidation. To his astonishment, the car door stands ajar, and Harsh is nowhere to be found. Panic threatens to consume him, and, in frustration, he hurls the bag into the car before embarking on a frantic search, his eyes darting in every direction. In his despair, he unleashes his emotions, kicking at nearby trash bins and raising his voice in exasperation.Unbeknownst to Sam, his friends, Heran, Kajal, and Harsh, emerge from the house, having concluded their meal. Their faces contort with confusion as they witness Sam's emotional turmoil. Yet, Sam's laughter eventually breaks the tension as he quips, "You certainly do like making me trouble aren't you buddy."Kajal offers an explanation, revealing their intention to bring back Harsh along and nurse him back to health. Sam, still grinning, responds with a chuckle, saying, "Well, you could've just sent me a text or something"Sam inquires about the car keys, and Kajal playfully admits to always keeping a spare, accompanied by a mischievous smile.Sam embraces Harsh warmly, commenting on his appearance, but a notable absence of response hints at a deeper issue. In a hushed tone, Heran speculated with a trembling voice,"I think he might have lost his memory. We should take him to see a doctor tomorrow.""Tomorrow it is," Kajal affirms.With Sam's help, Harsh finds his place in the car, and Heran hesitates about going alone due to the late hour. Sam persuades Heran to stay for the sake of safety, and Kajal teases Sam, a playful reminder of her victory in their last race. Sam feigns annoyance, and the trio shares a hearty laugh, evoking a gentle giggle from Harsh.Sam assures them, "Alright, I'll be there tomorrow. Be ready." With heartfelt farewells exchanged between Kajal and Sam, they bid adieu to Harsh and Heran.
Inside the car, Heran stumbled upon a bag filled with a thoughtfully assembled medical package. Within, an array of glass bottles held revitalizing coconut and chia seed concoctions, electrolyte-infused refreshments, and an assortment of energy-boosting tonics. She extended the bag to Harsh, who regarded it with curiosity. A faint, piercing voice echoed in his mind, whispering, “No elixir for you, king.” Harsh shook his head, attempting to dispel the disconcerting voice. He eagerly uncorked a bottle and took a rejuvenating sip. In his head, a sudden shout cried out, “Poison, King!” Harsh’s reaction was swift; he peered out of the car, spits and let out a startled scream. Heran promptly brought the car to a halt and inquired, “Are you alright?” Harsh replied, “I’m fine, just my mind playing games on me.” He cast a wary glance at the bottle, memories of an unknown dark past flooding in.After a momentary pause, Heran continued her journey. Harsh’s inner thoughts softly beckoned, encouraging him to indulge in another sip. Finding comfort in the familiar taste, he gradually sensed relief coursing through him. The throbbing headache began to recede, and his strength gradually returned.After a leisurely drive, Harsh and Heran found themselves at Harsh's apartment complex, Casa Rivera. Heran parked her car, and as they entered the building, a subtle throb reverberated within Harsh's mind. He instinctively cradled his head in his hands, prompting Heran to express her concern, "Are you alright?" Harsh managed a faint smile and replied, "Just another one of those headaches, nothing out of the ordinary."In quiet companionship, they ventured towards the building's elevator, blissfully unaware of the receptionist who couldn't help but cast suspicious glances their way. Oblivious to her scrutiny, they proceeded, and as they departed her line of sight, the receptionist discreetly picked up the phone at her desk and dialed a number. Across from her, a billboard loomed with a photograph of Harsh and the word 'Wanted' emblazoned above it.Upon reaching Harsh's apartment, a minor hiccup emerged - the keys were nowhere to be found. Heran decided to make a quick trip back down to Housekeeping, but to their dismay, the elevator seemed to have its own agenda. Harsh remained by the door, standing on a welcoming mat that amusingly read "Get away," his arms crossed, surveying his surroundings with a calm demeanor. His fingers idly brushed the leaves of potted plants adorning the shoe compartment and occasionally, the friendly dog tethered to his neighbor's room on the left.Time elapsed, and patience prevailed as Harsh contemplated trying the door as it stood. On his second attempt, he inadvertently disassembled the entire key mechanism, inadvertently toppling a potted plant in the process. He scooped up the shattered remnants of the plant and, much to his relief, spotted a key hidden amidst the debris. The room remained unchanged since last seen, adorned with red and white balloons hanging from the ceiling and striped walls, setting a romantic ambiance. He carefully positioned the injured plant near the window and gently rinsed his bloody nose at the sink, his hands shaking with nervousness.Meanwhile, Heran returned triumphant with the key, only to find the door ajar and the lock in a state of disrepair. She tiptoed inside, quietly observing Harsh as he inspected his reflection in the mirror. Harsh's physique was striking, his muscles sculpted with precision, and not a trace of excess fat - pure strength embodied him. His eyes, usually a warm brown, displayed an unexpected hint of blue today. Heran entered the room without announcing herself, a fact that didn't seem to startle Harsh in the slightest. Clearing her throat to break the silence, she inquired, "Did you... break this door?" Harsh's response was subdued, "It was an accident," as he inched closer, their eyes locking in an unspoken connection. Heran mirrored his gaze, and an unspoken understanding passed between them.As Heran searched for the right words, Harsh broke the silence, "You say this is my place." Heran affirmed with a nod, remarking, "But everything here feels out of place, like I don’t belong and the painful memories..." She tenderly cupped Harsh's face, offering her support, "Oh, Harsh. Maybe you should rest; you've had a challenging day." She added, "A shower might help you freshen up and ease your discomfort." Harsh blinked and nodded in agreement, heading towards the bathroom.Inside the bathroom, Harsh found solace, while Heran sought out a change of clothes for him, along with another set for herself to sleep in, discreetly tucked away in Harsh's closet. She then ventured into the kitchen, preparing a soothing pot of tea and coffee, all in a bid to make their evening more comfortable and peaceful.Harsh found himself in a rather cramped bathroom, trying to coax the stubborn showerhead. Despite his best efforts, it remained disappointingly dry. Frustration crept in as he made another futile attempt. It was clear the shower was malfunctioning. Seeking a solution, he reached out to Heran for help, explaining the issue with a hint of exasperation.Heran, advised him to turn the tap in a different direction. Harsh did as instructed, but the shower still refused to cooperate. Instead, the geyser emitted peculiar noises. Harsh expressed his frustration, convinced that something was broken beyond repair. In the kitchen, Heran heard Harsh's call for help and rushed to the bathroom. Surprisingly, as she attempted to enter, Harsh unexpectedly swung open the door, causing her to startle in surprise. Heran slipped on the bath mat, but Harsh managed to catch her just in time, preventing a potential accident. They locked eyes, sharing a profound, unspoken connection in that fleeting moment.Suddenly, Harsh was struck by a sharp headache, and memories from the past flashed before his eyes. Concerned, Heran held his face gently and asked in a panicked tone, "Are you okay?" Harsh managed to steady himself, though he coughed up blood, causing Heran to panic further. Heran shrieked, "That's it, I'm calling the doctor!" Grabbing her arm, he questioned, "Do you have a habit of falling?" Heran responded with a mixture of grace and relief in her expression. They both entered the bathroom one by one, inadvertently getting uncomfortably close in the small space. Heran requested Harsh to step aside so she could attempt to diagnose and fix the issue. As they moved around, she discovered that the geyser had jammed and needed repair. Heran promptly called a plumber to resolve the problem, but their visitor appeared obnoxious and anxious, speaking only in hesitant hmms and ums as he worked.While waiting for the plumber to finish, Heran brewed herself a cup of tea, which she placed on the coffee table. Harsh emerged from his shower, finding the inviting aroma of Heran's tea too tempting to resist. He sipped it contentedly, unaware of the mix-up. Heran, on the other hand, came out with a cup of dark coffee for Harsh, only to discover him savoring her tea. She was visibly annoyed but tried to keep it together. Harsh complimented the tea, and the two shared a warm moment over their drinks.Afterward, Heran suggested that Harsh change into dry clothes, pointing to the ones she had laid out for him. However, she had also changed into her stunning silk green sleeping gown. Harsh couldn't help but notice and asked if she had been wearing the same outfit earlier, with a blush, Heran responded, "Oh, you noticed," confirming she had change. Harsh, playfully teasing, inquired about the presence of women's clothes in his closet, wondering if he lived with someone else. Heran hushed him with a finger to his lips and responded with mild irritation, "You live alone, dummy, and you ask too many questions." Harsh's smirk only fueled her exasperation, and she exclaimed, "Get changed already, you idiot!"Harsh, emerging from his room clad in red shorts and a simple white tee, was prepared for a night's rest. His gaze fell upon Heran, who was in the midst of meticulously arranging the couch, a makeshift bed for him. "Hey, where should I sleep? I'm really tired," he inquired, his tone gentle and fatigue evident.In a composed manner, Heran responded, "You'll sleep on the couch; I've already prepared it.""But you said this is my home," Harsh replied, his brow furrowing in mild confusion.Yet, Heran's response held a hint of sternness as she declared, "Stop asking questions! I'm in charge now. Go sleep on the couch."Feeling bewildered by her abrupt shift in demeanor, Harsh quietly acquiesced, making his way to the sofa. As he settled in, an unanswered question lingered in his mind, "What did I do to upset her?"Afterwards, while reclined on the sofa, Harsh looks up and couldn't help but notice the subtle flash of Heran's crimson underwear as she gracefully moved around the bed. His heart quickened, and an unfamiliar emotion stirred within him. He wondered, "what did I felt?"He risked another glance at Heran, but her sudden movement startled him. Frightened, he quickly averted his gaze, attempting to conceal his newfound embarrassment. As Heran woke up and looked around for a drink, she found Harsh slouched over the sofa. She approached him with her steps muffled by the rug. About to wake him with a gentle poke, Harsh suddenly woke up, and both were startled. Heran slapped him, realizing her mistake as Harsh's face bore a red mark. She pleaded for forgiveness and invited him to join her in sleeping on the bed. The cold air from the AC over the sofa and the sound of rain outside added to the chill in the room.In the quiet hours of the night, as Harsh lay beside her, he found himself unable to sleep and watched Heran for a while, captivated by her beauty. Heran noticed his lingering gaze and chastised him for it. After some time, Heran turned to look at him and saw that he was still awake. Sensing his sleeplessness, she softly scolded him and instructed him to rest. She then switched off all the room's lights, enveloping them both in darkness.After a time, Heran gently opened her eyes, realizing that Harsh was still awake. Her voice took on a soft, alluring quality as she began to speak, "You know, yesterday was a very special day for me. I had a special gift prepared for you, but you weren't here, and it made me feel lonely. Now that you're here, I'm very happy."Harsh listened intently as Heran continued, "But yesterday was yesterday, and today is the 'present' you've given me. Tomorrow will be our everyday mundane life."Heran offered a warm smile, her eyes meeting Harsh's. She carefully covered him with a blanket and nestled herself beside him.
Later that day, 16th Feb., 2002 – 
During the very early hours of day at a police station, a group consisting of Detective Sneha, Sanjeev, and several cops gathered for a meeting. After successfully blocking all the city’s thoroughfares, they deliberated on their next course of action. Captain, the cops who had previously failed to apprehend Harsh during their last encounter, spoke up, saying, “This will be our last chance. Preparations are complete, and this time Raj will fall.” He distributed handheld radios to everyone, instructing them to relay information through them while he would give the next set of orders. Sanjeev acknowledged, saying, “Yes, Captain.” The Captain continued, “But once I hand him over to you, Detectives’, you’ll need to extract every bit of information from him. That will be our key evidence against Raj.”Sanjeev nodded and added, “That’s where my team and I come in.” An Ex-officer with a dog tag around his neck joined them. Sneha then gave the order to initiate the plan, and the team dispersed in different directions.
In the early hours of the morning, a formidable police presence surrounded Harsh's apartment building. Heran, awakened by the commotion, realized that Harsh was no longer beside her. Panic coursed through her as she heard a loud thud emanating from the living room. Fear propelled her to investigate, and she found Harsh hurriedly barricading the door with furniture.Simultaneously, Sam and Kajal arrived in their car, their attention captured by the unusual police activity. Kajal's memory was jogged by the wanted poster, and she urged Sam to find out what was happening. Sam attempted to engage the officers in conversation, but they forcefully rebuffed him.Back inside the apartment, Heran was gripped by fear, and Harsh tried to soothe her with reassurances that everything would be alright. The police outside were determined to breach the door, and Heran, her voice trembling, implored, "What's happening? Who's at the door?"Harsh, endeavoring to calm her, said with sincerity, "Don't worry; everything will be okay." Swiftly, he puts the jacket, that hung nearby over Heran, and made his way toward the window where a plant was kept without a container. He peered down, finding a group of officers gathered below. Those at the door were closing in, and those inside surged towards the window in an attempt to capture him. In a moment of desperation, Heran cried out, "Wait!" just as Harsh took the daring leap outside.Sam, standing amidst the commotion, cast a watchful eye on the unfolding events. Across the street, Kajal's frantic attempts to reach Heran added to the growing tension.Meanwhile, on the third-floor window ledge, Harsh found himself in an unenviable position, caught in the crosshairs of officers' firearms, their expressions bearing a mix of caution and concern. Sam, the voice of reason in the midst of turmoil, pleaded with the officers to keep their weapons lowered, hoping to avoid any unnecessary harm to Harsh.Kajal, her eyes wide with a sense of impending dread, watched in disbelief as Harsh made a daring decision. With a leap from the window, he descended in a manner far from graceful, landing awkwardly on top of a patrol car with a pained exclamation that punctuated the chaos, "Ouch, that hurt!" After his landing, he quickly checked his stomach and ensure the safety of the plant he was carrying, it was safe and undamaged. Satisfied, he carefully handed the plant and kept it beside him, in security.Up in Harsh's room, the police officers peer below and transmit the information over their radios. Heran could only scream as they apprehend her, preventing her from looking down, drowning her with questions about Harsh's well-being.As the officers moved to apprehend Harsh, Kajal, undeterred, pushed her way through the ranks of law enforcement, her face etched with determination. "Get out!" she screamed, her voice cutting through the chaos, with a sudden jump, Harsh enters her car and immediately speeds away, sending officers scatter all over. Kajal swiftly maneuvered it, changing direction and accelerating away. Gunshots echoed in the air, but Kajal's driving skills proved too elusive for the pursuing police.The entire police force sprang into coordinated action, their radios crackling with updates. Soon, it felt as if the entire Marine line PD was in pursuit. Their relentless chase led to attempts to ram their car and even gunfire, dashing in on them at every intersection. Yet, Kajal expertly evaded each obstacle, her driving expertise shining as they approached the scenic Marine line road, flanked by the calming presence of the ocean on one side. A fleeting sense of relief and shared laughter brushed against them, mingling with the cool ocean breeze.However, their respite was short-lived, as the intrusive presence of a news helicopter hovering overhead announced their every move to the world. A voice over the radio crackled with satisfaction, "Gotcha." In response, a fresh wave of police cars descended upon them.With nerves of steel, Kajal executed a daring U-turn, but the initial group of officers remained relentless in their pursuit. Forced to make a daring choice, she veered onto a different highway, only to find it lined with treacherous spike strips, threatening to puncture their tires. Unwavering in her resolve, she floored the accelerator. The rain began to fall, and they neared the highway's exit, where even more officers lay in wait. With no other option, Kajal crashed through a roadside fence, their descent taking them to a lower level of the road.The impact triggered the car's safety features, grinding it to a halt, its tires shredded. Kajal, bleeding from a head injury, frantically attempted to restart the car, her desperation palpable. Panicked, she shoved Harsh, who had regained consciousness but remained disoriented. The police sped toward them, causing Harsh to swiftly rose from the car. He glanced up at a hovering helicopter, which was capturing the scene from above. A swarm of police cars followed closely behind him. Just as he felt trapped, an indistinct voice behind him urgently cried, "Get out." Harsh turned to see an unfamiliar woman, but before he could react, he snapped back to reality, looking back at Kajal, who was injured and repeating the same desperate plea, "Get out!" The police closed in, swiftly apprehending Kajal, but Harsh found himself infused with an unexpected surge of energy, His eyes glittered with a radiant blue, while his legs emitted a dazzling blue light. "Nowhere to run, scaredy-cat! Big mistake underestimating Mumbai PD," Captain taunted a voice over the radio. The entire city has become a relentless pursuit, akin to a game of cat and mouse. Harsh began sprinting, with a convoy of cars close behind, but he outpaced them effortlessly on foot and quickly left them in dust but his freedom was short-lived, for ahead lay a formidable blockade of cars commanded by Detective Sneha, effectively cutting off his escape route. Harsh faced a pivotal moment and made a split-second decision, veering onto the only available path. Sneha and her team swiftly relayed, "He's out, heading left," and Detective Sanjeev responded with determination, "On my way," he swiftly entered his vehicle, directing his squad to tail him, all while proclaiming, "There's nowhere to hide" His turn came upto be wrong one as he suddenly came upon an elderly lady holding a black cat with glowing yellow eyes, attempting to cross the road. Struggling to control his speed, he was on the verge of colliding with her. In panic, Harsh yelled, "Move out of the way!" However, the lady was deaf and couldn't hear his warning. Desperately, he swerved to the side to avoid her. The black cat gracefully jumped of her arms and The old lady turned her head slowly only to see Harsh approaching at a dangerous speed, causing her to react with surprise, shock, and fear. She hurriedly moved away, but Harsh lost his balance, skidding and rolling on the ground. Struggling to regain his footing, Harsh realized he was trapped, caught between the converging forces of Detective Sneha's team and Detective Sanjeev's squad, who had closed in from both sides. The rain intensified, and lightning lit up the ominous scene as Sanjeev approached Harsh, his voice calm but resolute, "Same place, same you, same me... destiny." He delivered a forceful kick to Harsh's chest and head, neutralizing his resistance.From the opposite side, Sneha and her team moved in swiftly, handcuffing Harsh and taking him into custody. As they loaded him into their waiting jeep, they sped away into the tempestuous night. The weather mirrored the turmoil of the chase, and the recording of Harsh's arrest was lost amidst the fury of the storm.
Amidst the quieting of the relentless rain outside the City's Police Department, the atmosphere remained tense, yet devoid of melodrama. Sam stood firm, locked in a standoff with the officers, his sole aim being to secure access to his friend, Harsh, and his sister, Kajal. The officers, unwavering and stoic, showed no inclination to engage in conversation.Suddenly, Kajal emerged from within the police station, flanked by female officers who struggled to contain her spirited resolve. With an expression of annoyance and simmering anger, she spotted Sam and rushed into his embrace, seeking answers about Harsh. Sam's response was simple yet laden with uncertainty, "I only know he's inside, but they won't give me any information."The officers escorting Kajal, perhaps intimidated by her unwavering determination, attempted to present some documents for her signature. Her frustration bubbled over as she demanded to know Harsh's whereabouts and the terms for his release. One of the officers, taken aback, retorted, "Who do you think you are, challenging the police like this?" Kajal, in response, spoke firmly, "I know exactly who I am. I am the daughter of the this town’s Collector. Now, tell me where he is or how much you want." The officer reluctantly responded, "I'm just following protocol; I don't have information about your friend. Please sign this bail document. I need to report it to the higher-ups." Kajal signed her bail, and her only question was about who had secured it. The officer replied simply, "Your father."Meanwhile, at the entrance to the police station, a car screeched to a halt, its tires producing a high-pitched squeal that echoed through the quieting rain. Heran, her eyes brimming with tears and her face etched with anguish, locked eyes with Kajal and strode resolutely toward her. She demanded with raw emotion, "Where is he?" Kajal offered a soothing assurance, "He's here. Stay calm; we'll get him out, I promise." Kajal then retreated, her focus shifting to her phone as she began making calls to her contacts.Heran's gaze then fell upon Sam, his empathy evident as he approached the stationed officers, demanding Harsh's release and inquiring about the terms of his bail. A scuffle ensued as Sam and the officers clashed briefly, with others attempting to calm the situation.
In a room inside, Sneha and her team meticulously prepared for their impending investigation. Recording equipment was being set up while Sanjeev diligently inspected his outfit. A subtle exchange of nods passed between Sanjeev and Sneha before she returned to her computer, instructing her colleagues to commence the investigation. Inside the room designated for the investigation, Harsh sat handcuffed to a table, and a one-way window offered a view into the room. Sanjeev walked in accompanied by two other men. He settled into a seat across Harsh, while a tall, imposing figure with a dog tag hanging from his neck positioned himself behind Harsh, exuding an aura of anger. Shortly after, another officer, dressed entirely in black from sunglasses to shoes, joined the group. He secured the door and held a firearm.The formidable figure beside Harsh displayed irritation and questioned, "Why does the whole agency want to capture him alive? He should be killed immediately."Sanjeev responded, "I understand your frustration, Sir Jafri, but he's valuable to us. After all, he's a member of Raj Tech." Sanjeev locked his gaze onto Harsh and posed a question with a sly grin, "Isn't that right, Mr. Vishal?"Harsh, bewildered, attempted to free himself from the cuffs, muttering, "Just let me go. I don't know anything." Sanjeev admonished him, explaining that initial denial was common but that their job was to uncover the truth.Sanjeev leaned in closer to Harsh, and Jafri stepped aside, arms folded. Sanjeev persisted, "I'll be direct. What is your connection to RT?"Harsh, still befuddled, responded, "Who?"Sanjeev slammed his hand on the table, his tone stern, "Raj Technologies. RT. Raj Tech. Does that ring a bell?"Harsh stammered, "I've never heard of them.""Don't play games," Sanjeev retorted, frustration in his voice. "Tell the truth."Harsh continued to assert his ignorance. Jafri, growing impatient, issued a warning, "My patience is wearing thin. Spill the truth before the torture begins."Sanjeev echoed the sentiment, "I feel the same way, Sir Jafri. My inner beast wants to kill him, but before that, I want the truth." Sanjeev grabbed Harsh's collar and yelled, "Tell me!" with increasing intensity.Harsh finally cried out, "I don't know anything. Let me go."Sanjeev lost his temper, delivering a punch to Harsh's face, causing him to fall with a loud thud. Jafri was shocked as Sanjeev recoiled, clutching his hand andshouting in pain. Harsh, lying on the ground with a bruised face, whispered, "Just let me go."Sanjeev screamed in frustration, "You cocky bastard! You think you're above everyone with those Raj drugs in your system, huh? You're just an RT dog. Sir Jafri, teach him a lesson." Jafri, filled with rage, confronted Harsh, holding him up and expressing his anguish. He uttered bitterly, "It's because of you and your associates that my comrades died, leaving me in solitude." Jafri gripped Harsh's arm firmly and continued, "The entire city is under his rule and the influence of his drugs. Nowadays, any rogue like you can take on a hundred-strong army singlehandedly, and the police don't even attempt to intervene due to the vast power imbalance and the fear that they too will meet their end."Harsh attempted to defend himself, but Jafri struck him, taunting, "Without that RT-Dx coursing through your veins, you're nothing. Your feeble body sickens me."
[WRITER'S NOTE - RT-Dx is an illicit substance, conceived by Raj Tech, illegally circulated within Mumbai's underground marketplace. Its potency varies depending on the number of doses consumed and the individual's overall health, potentially enhancing human strength and reflex with some side-effects]
Harsh, confused and frightened, struggled to comprehend the accusations against him. Sanjeev challenged him, "How did you scale that wall so effortlessly that day, if it's not due to the drugs?"Harsh muttered, "I... I don't know how."Tension hung in the air like a heavy curtain. The sound of Jafri's punches echoed through the space, punctuated by Harsh's pained grunts. The bruised contours of Harsh's face bore witness to the relentless interrogation. Jafri's voice was firm but controlled, a stark contrast to the violence of the situation. "Don't lie if you want to leave here in one piece," he reiterated.Despite the agony, Harsh managed a feeble chuckle, betraying a hint of understanding. "I understand now," he mumbled, lips stained with blood. Sanjeev and Jafri exchanged knowing glances, acknowledging the fragile breakthrough. Harsh continued, his voice wavering, "You use words like don't lie yet, you shout to force the false truth out, trying to manipulate me to say what you want. But I've already said, "I DON'T KNOW."Jafri, delivered two blows to Harsh's belly, making him choke blood. He asks the same question that echoed in room. "Tell the truth," Jafri urged once more. Harsh, resolute, repeated, "I DON'T KNOW." This time, Jafri's frustration boiled over as he landed a harsh punch to Harsh's jaw. "Tell me the truth. Are you working for Raj as a runaway asset, or are you just a grunt?" It was a moment of escalating tension, but before things could escalate further, Sanjeev intervened.As Harsh confessed, "I DON'T KNOW anything," Sanjeev let out a sigh. Jafri, still simmering with intensity, delivered another kick to Harsh. Sanjeev settled beside him, probing further, "Then why did you run away from us today and that day?" Harsh's mind raced, and his trembling body could barely contain his emotions. "I DON'T KNOW," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper, blaming it on instinct.Sanjeev persisted, "So what is this instinct telling you now?""I DON'T KNOW."
Outside, a different kind of turmoil unfolded. Heran stood with Kajal, both gripped by worry for Harsh and Sam, who had caused a commotion in front of the police and was now detained. Kajal had taken charge at the police station, confronting every officer. Heran tried to keep her calm, but tension hung thick in the air. Then Kajal received a call, her expression shifting. After a brief conversation, she turned to Heran and said that help was on the way. Heran clasped her handkerchief tightly, silently praying for the safety of her friends.
Inside, Harsh's eyes locked onto Jafri as he drew near, delivering another punishing blow. The room seemed to close in on him, and his back pressed against the wall next to Sanjeev. There, an unexpected sight caught his attention—a black glass window. On the other side was Sneha, who jumped in surprise at the sight of him. A woman's voice urged, "Go ahead," and an overwhelming surge of anger coursed through Harsh. His voice reverberated in the room as he screamed, a desperate attempt to break free from the chains that bound him. The world around him seemed to slow down, his rage consuming him. Sanjeev's urgent shout rang in his ears, "Stop him!" Jafri grabbed Harsh by the collar, struggling to restrain him, but Harsh's strength seemed superhuman as he tore his bloodstained shirt. Breaking free from the guard cop's grip, he shattered his restraints, chains still hanging from his arms. Pushing everyone aside, he made a desperate dash for the exit, but the guard cop grabbed him and drew his pistol.In that intense moment, Harsh glanced back, his eyes radiating a piercing blue light. Fear gripped the guard cop, and he released his hold on Harsh. Jafri summoned every ounce of courage, holding onto Harsh firmly, preventing his escape. Meanwhile, Sanjeev attempted to rush to the door, but it wouldn't budge. In a state of terror, the guard cop fired a bullet, though his aim was shaky. Miraculously, Harsh dodged the bullet also saving Jafri from harm, but it struck the cop's shoulder who opened the door from the other side. Sanjeev dropped to the ground, his fear intensifying as the gunshot echoed through the room. More officers rushed in, attempting to stop Harsh, but he blocked their path by hurling tables at them. With incredible agility, he managed to escape their grasp, leaping over them. Finally, Sanjeev locked the door from the other side, sealing off the chaos inside.Outside, in the investigation compound room, Detective Sneha and her colleagues watched in awe as the scene unfolded. Sir Jafri, the guard cop, and the elite officers struggled to contain a single enraged individual—a scene of sheer chaos. Yet, amidst the turmoil, Sneha remained calm, her demeanor unshaken. Sanjeev joined her, and together, they gazed through the window, watching the pandemonium unfold inside, where one man's inexplicable power seemed to defy all reason.
>> Here ends the 4th chapter...

This Novel Contains Mature Content

Show This Chapter?